Night Swimming - Concert Review & Ticket Information
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Get ready, music lovers, because a truly enchanting evening awaits on Bristol’s iconic Floating Harbour! On Saturday, 15th November 2025, the legendary Thekla will play host to Night Swimming, promising an immersive journey into their ethereal soundscapes. This is more than just a gig; it’s an experience where the city’s vibrant energy meets the band’s captivating melodies, all aboard one of the UK’s most unique venues. Mark your calendars, secure your tickets, and prepare to be swept away as Night Swimming transforms the historic cargo ship into a haven of atmospheric indie-pop. Bristol is buzzing, and this is one date you absolutely won’t want to miss.
About Night Swimming
Night Swimming emerged from the thriving Bristol music scene in the late 2010s, quickly carving out a niche with their distinctive blend of dream-pop, atmospheric indie, and introspective lyrics. Formed by lead vocalist and songwriter Elara Vance, alongside guitarist Leo Thorne and rhythm section Maya Sharma (bass) and Finn O’Connell (drums), their sound is characterised by shimmering synths, intricate guitar work, and Vance’s hauntingly beautiful vocals. Their debut EP, “Murmuration,” garnered critical acclaim, setting the stage for their breakthrough album, “Beneath the Surface,” which featured fan favourites like “Tidal Bloom” and “Starlight Drift.”
Their music often evokes a sense of nocturnal wonder and emotional depth, perfectly aligning with their evocative name. They draw inspiration from the city’s melancholic beauty and its maritime history, translating it into sound. Night Swimming’s live performances are known for their immersive quality, creating an intimate connection with the audience through carefully crafted visuals and a dynamic stage presence that balances raw energy with moments of delicate introspection. Their discography has steadily grown, with each release showcasing an evolution in their sound while retaining the core elements that first captivated their fanbase. Expect to hear a seamless blend of their early, beloved tracks and more recent, experimental material.
Thekla: The Perfect Setting
Nestled in Bristol’s vibrant Floating Harbour, Thekla isn’t just a venue; it’s a living legend. This former German cargo ship, affectionately known as “Thekla, G.B.S. (Great British Ship),” has been a cornerstone of the city’s music scene since the 1980s. Its unique location and distinctive character make it one of the most memorable places to catch a live show in the entire UK. Imagine the gentle sway of the ship as the bass reverberates through its hull – it’s an experience unlike any other.
Thekla boasts an intimate capacity, typically holding around 400 punters in its main hold, ensuring that every gig feels up close and personal. The low ceilings, exposed metalwork, and industrial charm contribute to an unparalleled atmosphere, drawing you deeper into the music. Despite its age and unique structure, Thekla is committed to accessibility where possible. While the nature of a boat venue presents some challenges, staff are always on hand to assist, and it’s advisable to contact the venue directly in advance regarding specific access requirements. Its rich history, having hosted countless iconic bands and burgeoning artists over the decades, infuses every performance with a sense of legacy. Thekla remains a beloved institution, a testament to Bristol’s enduring love affair with live music.
What to Expect at the Show
Prepare for an evening of pure sonic enchantment when Night Swimming takes to Thekla’s stage. Known for their meticulous attention to detail in their live performances, the band is expected to deliver a setlist that traverses their entire discography, from the atmospheric early tracks of “Murmuration” to the more refined sounds of “Beneath the Surface,” and perhaps even a glimpse of new material. Expect to hear fan favourites like “Tidal Bloom” and “Starlight Drift” alongside deeper cuts, all woven together to create a cohesive and captivating narrative.
The stage production at Thekla, while intimate, will undoubtedly be enhanced by Night Swimming’s distinctive aesthetic. Anticipate subtle yet powerful lighting design, perhaps incorporating projections that echo their ethereal soundscapes – think shimmering blues, greens, and purples that dance across the hull of the ship. The atmosphere will be immersive and communal, with the audience drawn into the band’s world. The confined space of Thekla amplifies the emotional resonance of their music, creating a truly unforgettable experience where every note feels personal. Get ready to lose yourself in the music as the ship gently rocks to the rhythm of Night Swimming’s captivating performance.
Getting to Thekla
Thekla is conveniently located in Bristol’s city centre, making it relatively easy to reach by various means. The venue’s postcode is BS1 4RB, situated on the famous Floating Harbour.
If you’re arriving by train, Bristol Temple Meads station is your best bet. From there, it’s a pleasant 15-20 minute walk along the harbourside, or a short bus ride. Numerous local bus routes also serve the city centre, with stops just a few minutes’ walk from Thekla. For those travelling from further afield, Bristol is well-connected by coach services to the main bus station, which is also within walking distance. Parking in the immediate vicinity of Thekla is very limited, particularly on a Saturday evening, and often expensive. We strongly recommend utilising public transport, walking, or using ride-sharing services. If driving is essential, consider parking in one of the city centre multi-storey car parks a short walk away, such as Trenchard Street or Cabot Circus, but be prepared for potential queues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does the event start?
Doors for Night Swimming at Thekla are scheduled to open at 7:00 PM on Saturday, 15th November 2025. The support act is expected to take the stage shortly after, with Night Swimming typically performing around 8:45 PM. We always recommend arriving early to secure a good spot and avoid missing any of the show.
Is there an age restriction?
Yes, Thekla operates an age restriction policy. For this particular gig, attendees aged 14 and over are welcome, but anyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult over 18. Valid photographic ID may be required for entry, especially if you plan to purchase alcoholic beverages.
What’s the refund policy?
Refunds are generally only issued if the event is cancelled or significantly rescheduled. All ticket sales are final, so please ensure you are able to attend before purchasing. If you find you can no longer make it, you may be able to resell your ticket via authorised secondary ticketing platforms, but always check the terms and conditions of your original ticket vendor.
Are there food and drink options?
Thekla features well-stocked bars on both the main deck and in the lower hold, offering a range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. While they don’t serve full meals, you can usually find light snacks available for purchase. There are also numerous restaurants, cafes, and takeaways within a short walk of the venue in Bristol’s city centre.
Where to Stay in Bristol
Bristol is a fantastic city with a wide array of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, from boutique hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Staying near the city centre or the Harbourside will put you in prime position to enjoy not only Thekla but also Bristol’s vibrant nightlife, historical attractions, and culinary scene.
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